Choosing the right contractor is the most important decision in any remodel. Washington State gives homeowners useful tools for checking a contractor before you sign. Here’s a step-by-step checklist, based on guidance from the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I).
1. Verify registration, bond and insurance
Contractors in Washington must be registered with L&I. Use L&I’s Verify a Contractor tool to confirm a contractor’s registration is active and that they are bonded and insured, and to see any infractions. The registration number should appear on their ads and written bid. (ELV Renovations’ license number is ELVRERL792P6.)
2. Get written bids and compare them carefully
Ask for detailed written bids and compare more than the bottom line: scope of work, start and end dates, specific products, warranties, and whether permit fees and sales tax are included.
3. Put everything in a written contract
A good contract lists the price including sales tax, payment terms, completion date, permit responsibilities, specific work and materials, major subcontractors and suppliers, warranties, and how changes will be handled. Get every change in writing.
4. Structure payments around progress
- Pay a reasonable down payment, then pay as significant phases are completed.
- Get a receipt for every payment.
- Be wary of anyone demanding full payment up front or cash only.
5. Protect yourself from liens
In Washington, subcontractors and suppliers can file a lien on your property if they aren’t paid. Before final payment, ask for lien releases from major subcontractors and suppliers. L&I’s Hire Smart guide covers this in more detail.
A good contractor welcomes these questions. They’re how trust gets built before the first wall comes down.
ELV Renovations
6. Ask about process and communication
Ask who will manage your project day to day, how often you’ll get updates, and how permits and inspections are handled. See how we work on our process page.
Planning a remodel in Redmond? Contact ELV Renovations. We’re happy to answer every question on this list.
